Hugo Neu Corporation Sustainability Seminar Series: Transforming Contaminated Landscapes: Science in Action for a Sustainable Future
Department of Civil, Environmental, and Ocean Engineering
Speaker: Michelle Bouwman, LSRP, Senior Consultant & NY/NJ Division Leader, Verdantas
ABSTRACT
New Jersey has some of the most contaminated sites undergoing remediation in the United States, with pollution affecting the soil, water, sediment, and air. Contamination disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities and is especially common in former urban waterfront areas susceptible to the effects of climate change, such as flooding and sea level rise. Environmental consulting is a dynamic industry that uses science, engineering and policy to tackle these challenges and create a sustainable and healthy environment for all. The seminar will present participants with a tangible understanding of the environmental consulting and engineering sector, and work that has meaningful short- and long-term impacts to the sustainability and safety of our communities.
Michelle Bouwman will describe the history and science behind the remediation of environmental contamination, from the Industrial Revolution to formation of the Superfund program, through modern environmental science and regulations. Michelle will walk participants through the real-world applications of multidisciplinary science to effect sustainable solutions to complex problems.
BIOGRAPHY
Michelle Bouwman, LSRP is a Senior Consultant and Associate Vice President at Verdantas, where she serves as the operations leader for the firm’s NJ/NY Division. In her technical practice, she synthesizes a deep understanding of regulatory requirements with decisive communications to make complex environmental datasets accessible and actionable. Her work transforms environmentally impacted sites from community hazards to sustainable assets. She is a regular speaker and author at industry events and publications.
Michelle holds a Bachelor’s degree in Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Science from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and a post-baccalaureate certificate in Geographic Information Systems from Pennsylvania State University. She is an active member of the NJ Licensed Site Remediation Professional Association and NJ Society of Women Environmental Professionals (NJSWEP), and was the recipient of the NJSWEP 2025 “Growing Great Women in the Garden State” award.
Zoom Link:
Website:
https://www.stevens.edu/sustainability-seminar-series
Jointly Sponsored by:
HUGO NEU Corporation
WSP
HDR
NOMADICS
Brown and Caldwell
H2M Architects and Engineers
Dewberry
Contact:
At any time, photography or videography may be occurring on Stevens’ campus. Resulting footage may include the image or likeness of event attendees. Such footage is Stevens’ property and may be used for Stevens’ commercial and/or noncommercial purposes. By registering for and/or attending this event, you consent and waive any claim against Stevens related to such use in any media. See Stevens' Privacy Policy for more information.